As part of my #CCAM posts I asked some friends and family to tell about my cancer diagnosis from their point of view. Today we will hear from my mother, Sue Schuppert, as she reflects about what it was like when I was originally diagnosed and during my continued treatments. I cannot fathom having a child go through what I am going through. What she doesn't realize, is that it takes a pretty strong person to watch a child (even their adult child) go through cancer. I think she is pretty strong too! - Erica
The hardest part of being a parent is watching your child go through something really tough & not being able to fix it for them. Erica having cancer has taught me to be more forgiving of others, especially of strangers. You never know what battle they may be fighting. To look at Erica you'd often never know that she's sick. Although distance to Indianapolis from Southern Indiana (where I live) is not far, a one day trip isn't long enough to spend with Erica & offer any assistance. I just want to be able to help more. I'll never forget the day that Erica called me to tell me that she had cancer. It was a dreary day, I was at work and overlooking the Ohio River as we spoke. The words that she spoke gave me shivers. Why my child? It should be me instead of her! I raised my kids to stand up for themselves, to not let people push them around. I had no idea that one of them would have to fight a battle like this, especially three times. Erica has always held her head up high with the intent to beat this horrible beast. She has been an inspiration to us all.
As a parent, my emotions are so mixed. I'm glad to see Erica very inspired to be an advocate for cervical cancer & to be the best mom and wife, but I'm very sad too. Why does my daughter have to go through this? I want to rip this cancer from her, my daughter should not have to deal with this cancer!
I'm not going to give up and neither is Erica! She has too much to live for, her life, my grandson (her son) Wylee & my awesome son-in-law (her husband) JR. JR has been a blessing to our family. Has been the best husband, father and caretaker for Erica. I'm glad that he is there to share this journey with Erica & help her in many ways.
This past weekend, I along with my other daughters, had the awesome experience of volunteering at Cervivor School Hoosier with Erica to support her. It was great to see her so happy and surrounded by people who are or have gone through what she is. Her new support group is an awesome mixture of women & men (JR, Scott & Dr. Hunk!) The guest speakers were very informative shedding light on information we didn't know.
I'm so proud of Erica being an advocate for cervical cancer awareness. She's fighting this monster with her head held high and full speed ahead! I see her as a great inspiration to other women going through the same battle.
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